Nintendo Switch Online (NSO) memberships pack a lot into their offerings, providing players with a gateway to enjoy iconic games from past console generations and access to multiple expansions for some of the most popular releases. For gamers browsing the Nintendo Store for new Switch games, a subscription can unlock a wealth of additional content and features.

With Nintendo confirming that NSO will transition to the Switch 2, it's clear these memberships will keep delivering the same valuable perks, including extensive retro game libraries, on the upcoming console. When choosing between the two available plans, it's essential to consider what benefits you're seeking and the best deals available upon signing up.

Whether you're eager to dive into classics like Ocarina of Time and Super Mario 64 or just want to race against friends in Mario Kart online, understanding the full spectrum of Nintendo Switch Online membership plans is crucial to making the best choice for your gaming needs.

### Nintendo Switch Online Free Trial

0Seven days free, then renewed at a monthly rate of $3.99. No Expansion Pack benefits are included. See it at NintendoNintendo Switch Online offers a seven-day free trial of its basic membership, allowing you to experience online play across your existing Switch games and dive into a wide range of NES, SNES, and Game Boy libraries. You can start your free trial directly on your Switch or via the Nintendo Online website by logging into your Nintendo account and following the prompts in the eShop. After the trial, your subscription automatically renews at $3.99 per month. Note that each Nintendo account is eligible for only one free trial.

How Much Is Nintendo Switch Online?

### Nintendo Switch Online

0Compare plans, prices, and perksSee it at NintendoNintendo provides two Nintendo Switch Online membership plans: Nintendo Switch Online and Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack. Both plans are available in individual or family packages, which determine the number of accounts that can access the plan’s benefits. Here's a detailed look at what each plan offers, including their benefits, drawbacks, and pricing.

Nintendo Switch Online: Individual - 1 month: $3.99, 3 months: $7.99, 1 year: $19.99

This plan grants a Nintendo Switch Online pass to one account, offering online play, full access to the Switch Online NES, SNES, and Game Boy libraries, cloud saving, and the Nintendo Switch Online mobile app. You'll also enjoy unique offers and discounts.

12-Month Individual Membership### Nintendo Switch Online Gift Card

0$19.99 at Amazon### Nintendo Switch Online: Family - 1 year: $34.99

This plan extends the same benefits to up to eight accounts, making it a cost-effective choice for households. You'll have access to online play, the full NES, SNES, and Game Boy libraries, cloud saving, the mobile app, and exclusive deals and discounts.

Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack: Individual - 1 year: $49.99

This upgraded plan includes all the features of the standard Nintendo Switch Online for one account, plus additional perks. You'll get access to the N64, Game Boy Advance, and SEGA Genesis libraries, as well as expansions for Mario Kart 8, Animal Crossing: New Horizons, and Splatoon 2. Cloud saving, the mobile app, and exclusive offers are also included.

Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack: Family - 1 year: $79.99

Similar to the Individual Expansion Pack, this plan extends all benefits to up to eight accounts. It includes online play, access to all mentioned game libraries, cloud saving, the mobile app, and exclusive discounts, making it ideal for larger gaming households.

Additional Subscription Details

Nintendo Switch Online: Individual - 1 month: $3.99, 3 months: $7.99, 1 year: $19.99

The base Nintendo Switch Online package is perfect for solo players who primarily want to enjoy online multiplayer. It grants access to Nintendo’s online multiplayer services, including the online portions of your favorite games.

You'll also enjoy the full Switch Online NES, SNES, and Game Boy libraries, which feature classics like Super Mario Bros. 3, F-ZERO, and Donkey Kong Country. These games can be played offline if you've logged in within the last seven days, making them great for on-the-go gaming. However, this plan does not include access to N64, Game Boy Advance, or SEGA Genesis libraries.

Additional perks include cloud saving for transferring saves between Switch consoles, exclusive deals, and access to the Nintendo Switch Online mobile app. The flexibility of this plan allows you to subscribe monthly or save by committing to a year upfront.

Nintendo Switch Online: Family - 1 year: $34.99

The Family plan mirrors the Individual tier but extends the benefits to up to eight accounts, making it an excellent choice for large households. You'll need to pay for a full year upfront, but it's a more economical option compared to purchasing multiple individual memberships.

You'll enjoy online multiplayer, access to NES, SNES, and Game Boy libraries, cloud saving, exclusive offers, and the mobile app. This plan is ideal for families primarily interested in online play without the additional features of the Expansion Pack.

Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack: Individual - 1 year: $49.99

For avid Switch players, the Expansion Pack adds significant value. Alongside all the features of the standard NSO plan, you'll gain access to N64, Game Boy Advance, and SEGA Genesis libraries, featuring classics like Ocarina of Time, Banjo-Kazooie, Super Mario 64, and Sonic the Hedgehog 2. You'll also receive expansions for major titles like Animal Crossing: New Horizons, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, and Splatoon 2, which can be purchased separately if preferred.

This plan is perfect for gamers who want to explore a broader range of retro games without the hassle of sourcing old consoles. If online multiplayer is your main focus, the standard plan might be more suitable.

Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack: Family - 1 year: $79.99

The Family version of the Expansion Pack extends all the benefits to up to eight accounts, including access to the expanded game libraries and major expansions. It's the best option for households where multiple gamers want to enjoy both Nintendo Switch Online and the added bonuses from the Expansion Pack.

Keep in mind that while the price increase is significant, the expansions included can be bought separately, which may be a consideration if you're primarily interested in those specific DLCs.